|
8 Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 10 Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13.8-10, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law – Romans 13.10 Being a servant of Christ is very important, but each one of us must have an attitude of love within our lives or our servanthood will be for nothing. In Romans chapter twelve Paul discussed how we are to be a “living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God, which is our reasonable service.” We are to give up ourselves, as Christ would have put it, “deny yourself” (Matthew 16.24), so you are no longer the one in control. Paul then went on in Romans twelve to tell us how we are all one body working together to ful- fill the mission of Christ. Christ is the head of the body (Colossians 1.18), controlling His church and we are the workers each having a specific task or mission. None of us do exactly the same things, therefore, we are unique yet we are working in unison serving God and fulfilling His one mission reconciling the world to Himself (II Corinthians 5.18.19). So, by now we are wondering how does love fit into this mold of being a servant for Christ? In verse eight, Paul is not commanding we never borrow money, nor should we not lend any money, however, he is encouraging us to remain as free from debt as possible with the exception of how we love each other. Love should be given freely, to everyone, in all situations, no matter the person their status, class or connection to us. See it is loving one another we are fulfilling the law, not just the law of Moses, but the law of God. Why love? Why not like one another, surly there are people we like but do not love? Let us face reality, not everyone we meet we are going to love, some of them are going to make us mad, tick us off, and cause us to have feelings we can never speak of. But yet Jesus clearly says, “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another” (John 13.34, CSB).[2] How does one reconcile this with people they cannot stand or even down right hate? To put it more bluntly Jesus said, “But I say unto you that hear, Love your enemies, do good to them that hate you, 28bless them that curse you, pray for them that despitefully use you” (Luke 6.27-28, ASV).[3] See it is not really what we want, it is what Christ has commanded us to do, why must we love others, what is the purpose? Jesus gave it to His disciples and to us as well, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13.25, ESV).[4] So, others will be able to know who Christ is by our actions and attitude. Our love serves as an example of Christ’s love, it is not about us or who we are. When God gave the law to His children, the Jews, in Exodus 20, we find the law broken into three segments; 1—Our relationship with God (Exodus 20.1-8), 2—Our relationship with family (Exodus 20.12), and 3—Our relationship with each other (Exodus 20.13-17). It is with the third part of this law that is type of love is concerned, ‘love your neighbor.’ For by loving your neighbor you will not want any harm to come to them, you will not desire to steal from them, or give any false testimony, and you will not desire to have what they have. See, if we have the same love as Christ, then we will desire to see our neighbor succeed just as we are, and we will do what is necessary to help them do so. It is through this love and devotion the world around us will see the true nature of Christ, His light shining as one set on the hill (Matthew 5.14-16), shining so all can see the dangers, avoid them and come safely into harbor of life, Jesus Christ. This is what Paul means when he says, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Romans 13.9).[5] It is through this love we are fulfilling the law of Christ. But our love cannot be just a word, it must be an action, something others can see and know it comes from our hearts, that it is not just on the surface or superficial. John writes, “We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action” (I John 3.16-18, NRSV).[6] Our love does not come from things we have learned prior to Christ coming into our lives, but because Christ came into our life. It is through His sacrifice on the cross, that we understand what true love is, and how it must be demonstrated. This does not mean we must also die, but we must be willing to lay our all on the line for Christ’s sake and the gospel. John gives us some examples of how to show the world true love, by our devotion and willingness to give all of ourselves for Christ. By seeing a need, and meeting this need, especially when we have the means to meet such a need. Of course, we need to listen to the Holy Spirit’s directions, but do not use Him as an excuse to never help or give of all God has given to us. Finally, John says we cannot just say we love, but we must show it by our actions and attitudes, or the truth of what we say. This kind of matches what James says, when he writes, “you show me your faith without works and I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2.18). Faith and works, Love and action they all go hand in hand. We cannot say we have one without the other to display them. Therefore, we must love our neighbor, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us, we have no choice! Application
Prayer Lord You are an amazing Father, Who sent His Son to be a great example for me to follow, as I try and love my neighbor. Your Son, came and sacrificed Himself on the cross for me a sinner, so I could have eternal life. What an act of Love, Compassion, Mercy and Grace. No one has ever shown this kind of love to me before. Lord give me the wisdom necessary to show this kind of Love to my neighbor, to shine the Light of Christ to those around me, so I will be a great example of all You are. Thank You for the opportunity to love others as You have loved me. All this I pray in Your Son, Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ro 13:8–10). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Jn 13:34). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [3] American Standard Version. (1995). (Lk 6:27–28). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. [4] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Jn 13:35). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [5] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ro 13:9). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [6] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (1 Jn 3:16–18). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 28 - Romans 13.8-10
0 Comments
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12.1-2).[1] Memory Verse – I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. – Romans 12.1 Paul gently called us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable unto God. Not because we are required to, nor because it is the fashionable thing to do. No, it is because of God’s great and wonderous mercies we even have an opportunity to come before Him; to come into His presence (Hebrews 10.19); yet Paul says, “by the mercies of God…” through His love, grace, and compassion we are to present our bodies to Christ—your reasonable service. How are we going to be this kind of person? One, who is a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God? Sin is everywhere, it is hard for us to focus on God at times, and many times we find ourselves caught up in the sin of the world. Paul gives us three areas where we are to make changes; these changes might happen quickly, but for many of us it will take time, it is a process and will require dedication, desire, and motivation to do the things God has call us to do. First, Paul says, “Be not conformed to this world.” There are many ways to look at this statement, however, let us step back and pull ourselves out of the equation and understand what Paul was trying to get across before we draw any conclusions. The word ‘conformed’ means, “to form or mold one’s behavior in accordance with a particular pattern or set of standards.”[2] Also, “fashion (one’s) self-according to.”[3] While the word ‘world’ means, “the system of practices and standards associated with secular society (that is, without reference to any demands or requirements of God),”[4] or all “the sum of the demonic-human philosophy of life.”[5] With this understanding let us put together what Paul wants us to see here. ‘Do not’, it cannot happen, we must watch out for, and pay close attention to what we are doing so we do not fall into the wrong kind of situations or circumstances. ‘Do not be conformed to this world;’ in other words we must watch out for ourselves, pay close attention to what we are doing and make sure we are not allowing our actions to conform to the ways of the world, the evil schemes of the devil. This does not mean we do not use cars or electricity, or other modern features. But what we must be careful of allowing the things of the world to influence us to the point where we change who we are or what God wants us to do. Second, ‘be ye transformed…’ the meaning of this word ‘transformed’ is, “to change the essential form or nature of something— ‘to become, to change, to be changed into, to be transformed;”[6] to be something completely different. This would go along with what Paul wrote to the church at Corinth, “Wherefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature: the old things are passed away; behold, they are become new” (II Corinthians 5.17, ASV).[7] We need to allow Christ to change us, transform us into His image, make us into something better than who we used to be. As a believer in Jesus Christ, we have the Holy Spirit living inside of us, the Comforter (John 16.7-11), who will help us, show us all things and give us the guidance and direction we need. The question is will we follow His leading? The truth is when we asked Christ into our lives, a transformation began, our hearts were changed, our lives are different, however, there is a process which must continue to take place and this is what Paul is encouraging in every believer. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be ye transformed…” we each need to look around us, and see how we compare to Christ, does the world see Him in our lives and do our lives look any different? So, how does, or where does this transformation take place? Of course, it begins within our hearts, the internal part of our being as we ask Christ into our life, as was just pointed out above. However, there are things which are much harder to get rid of. Things, habits, actions, outward appearances we might have spent years building we must change. These are the things which will take time to deal with, to change, to transform and it all begins with our mind. The third and final change takes place within our mind. Our mindset is very important, how we perceive ourselves, how we think others perceive us and to a great degree today, what others think about us on social media. But when life is over, and it will be over at some point for everyone, we will all have to answer to only one person, Jesus Christ, the One Who has earned the right to pass judgment upon all humanity (Philippians 2.5-11). Henceforth, our mindset should not be what others think but, what does God think. How are we doing in the area of pleasing God? Notice in this verse it does not say, “acceptable to men,” or “pleasing to men,” but “what is acceptable and pleasing unto God.” Why, because our whole goal in life, our aim should be to please God, and Him alone. Paul in stating his argument to the churches at Galatia over why they had deviated from the gospel he had presented to them there is only one gospel (Good News), and there is no other. “I said this before, and now I say it again: You have already accepted the Good News. If anyone is preaching something different to you, let that person be judged guilty! Do you think I am trying to make people accept me? No, God is the One I am trying to please. Am I trying to please people? If I still wanted to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ” (Galatians 1.9-10, NCV).[8] Paul recognized what was important, pleasing God, serving God and Him alone at all cost. He dedicated his life to this endeavor, and we should do no less. This is what it means to be a servant, to serve God, at all cost, to give Him our all, everything we have, because this is what He gave to us, we can do no less. Application
If you have never asked Christ into your life, let today be the day you do. First you must Admit you are a sinner – Romans 3.23—All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God—in other words, there is nothing we can do to reach God, we can never be good enough, give enough, serve enough, or anything. Our sinful life has separated us from God the Creator. Second you must Believe God sent His one and only Son Jesus Christ into the world to pay our sin debt—Romans 6.23—For the wages of sin is death…—Christ came and died on the cross shedding His blood, paying our debt in full—Romans 6.23 (cont.)—But the GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. How amazing and wonderful that God would do such a thing. But man, I am so bad, and I need to get better first before God will take me. Romans 5.8—But God proved or showed His amazing and wonderful Love, in that while you were still in your sins, Christ came and died for YOU. You do not have to get better, the price has been paid, your sins covered, you must Confess right where you are. Romans 10.9-10—If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. One believes with the heart, resulting in righteousness, and one confesses with the mouth, resulting in salvation.” 4. Commit to learning Romans 12.1 and Witnessing to someone about what God has done for you. [1] The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Ro 12:1–3). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. [2] Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 506). New York: United Bible Societies. [3] Strong, J. (1995). Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon. Woodside Bible Fellowship. [4] Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 507). New York: United Bible Societies. [5] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1991). Romans (Vol. 2, p. 150). Chicago: Moody Press. [6] Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains (electronic ed. of the 2nd edition., Vol. 1, p. 154). New York: United Bible Societies. [7] American Standard Version. (1995). (2 Co 5:17). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. [8] The Everyday Bible: New Century Version. (2005). (Ga 1:9–10). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc. You Can download This Blog Here - January 25 - Romans 12.1-2 Pt. 2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12.1-2).[1] Memory Verse – I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. – Romans 12.1 We have discussed what it means to be a servant. We have looked at how a servant should act; and now we are going to discuss if we should be a servant at all. This might seem backwards, like we should have started with this, but knowing what a servant is, and how they should act are important to understand before we could even talk about being a servant. Paul in his letter to the Romans has been exhorting them, warning them about their lifestyle and how they needed to follow Christ. How He died for them (Romans 3.23, 5.8, 6.23, 10.9-10). Without Christ in their life there is no hope of eternal life in Heaven, and they would be lost forever in the pit of hell. Paul is speaking to the church at Rome, but his appeal goes out to all who will listen. Now, in chapter twelve, we find another appeal from Paul, he could have commanded believers to serve Christ, telling them what Christ had done. Of course, we can read the Gospels and see the sacrifice Christ made at the cross, His pain and suffering for us (Philippians 2.5-11, I Peter 2.21-25). With all this Paul is gentlely speaking to the church and us, by saying, “I beseech you” or I urge you. The Greek word for beseech is “parakaleō, which has the basic meaning of calling alongside in order to help or give aid. It later came to connote exhorting, admonishing, or encouraging.”[2] Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the Paraklētos, our Divine Helper (John 14.16, 26, 15.26, 16.7). Paul’s words carry the full weight of his apostleship, yet he does not want to come off as commanding, but as one who wants to be helpful and encouraging. Likewise, we must also want to help and encourage others in the service of the Lord. Sure, we can demand and command, but where will that get us in the long run. Just because we can command someone to do something does not mean we should, and Paul is taking this kind of approach. He wants to encourage his fellow believers, why, because of who God is, and what God has done. Look at the next part of this verse. “Therefore, Brethren, By the mercies of God,” therefore, let’s look back at the last four verses of chapter eleven. “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen” (Romans 11.33-36, ESV).[3] It is because of God’s great mercy and love, because He cared so much for us, that we have such an opportunity as this; to be part of His Kingdom, to share in the inheritance with His Son, Jesus Christ. How far beyond our imagination, awe and wonder is God, yet He came to us, sent His Son to us, sacrificed Himself for us so we could have a life. This is what Paul means by the mercies of God. So, how should we respond, what must we do in return for this kind of undying love and devotion to people who did not deserve such love? Paul says, “present your bodies as a living sacrifice.” We are to first give of ourselves to a Living and Holy God. Our bodies our not our own, and therefore, we are to offer them up to the Lord for His use. We should have the same mindset as Paul when he said, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me: and that life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, the faith which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me (Galatians 2.20, ASV).[4] Our lives as believers are not our own, we have died with Christ and have been buried with Him and raised anew, to a new life. Our old life is passed away and behold all things are new (Romans 6.3-11; II Corinthians 5.17). Thus, we must present our bodies as a living sacrifice unto God, “Holy,” meaning set apart for a special purpose. We are not called to be just a living sacrifice but a living and holy sacrifice unto God, someone who is set apart for a purpose to be used by God for His glory. When we are in this state, in this mind always remembering what it is that God has done for us, and committing ourselves to being a living and holy sacrifice unto God then we will be acceptable to Him. Our goal should always be one of pleasing God, if we are trying to please men then we have the wrong goals and mindset. Again, we must present ourselves as living sacrifices to God, Holy and acceptable, which is our reasonable service or spiritual worship. Why must we present ourselves as living sacrifices unto God? Holy and acceptable, it is our reasonable service or spiritual worship. It is, in other words, the least we could do for what God and His Son, Jesus Christ did for us. God allowed His only Son to come and take on human form, to walk among us, to be beaten, mocked and put to death by us. He shed His blood on the cross, and split the temple veil in two opening a way for us. He was buried and rose from the grave defeating death and hell for us, giving us victory. Whereby, we never have to fear death nor eternal separation from God. He now sits at the right hand of the Father interceding on our behalf, so we have the right to come into the throne room of the Father with boldness, with all prayers, pleading and intercessions. We ask why should we serve, because it is our reasonable service, it is the least we could do for a God who was so merciful. A God full of love and compassion, we must, we shall present our bodies as living sacrifices holy and acceptable unto God, because it is our reasonable service an act of spiritual worship for all God and Jesus Christ has done for us. Application
Prayer Lord, our Lord how magnificent is your name throughout the earth! I am amazed that You have taken the time to care about me, to look after me, to know me, and understand me. Lord help me to have a servant’s heart, to be someone who is looking out for the interest of others, and not just my own. Lord, give me wisdom to do for others, to have compassion on those who need Your help and allow me to show Your love and grace by my actions. As I serve You Lord, open the door to share Your gospel, begin to prepare the hearts of those I will come into contact with and provide me with the words to say. This I pray in Your Dear Son Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Ro 12:1–3). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. [2] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1991). Romans (Vol. 2, p. 139). Chicago: Moody Press. [3] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Ro 11:33–36). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [4] American Standard Version. (1995). (Ga 2:20). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 21 - Romans 12.1-2
14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 22 And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth’ (Matthew 25.14-30, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ – Matthew 25.25 We began by looking at what does it mean to be a servant. Today we will look at how a servant should act. Most people will know this passage from Matthew as the Parable of the Talents, where a parable is a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. Jesus used many parables throughout the gospels. Here Jesus gives us a parable of what the Kingdom of Heaven is like. In the first one He compared it to ten virgins being prepared for the coming bridegroom. Five were prepared and five were not, and when the bridegroom came five of them were left outside of the marriage supper. In the parable of the talents, Jesus moves toward a man taking a journey, he calls his servants and distributes to them some money. To the first one he gave $50, to the second one $20, and the last one he gives $10. Yes, they were talents and in biblical times a talent (gold) would be worth about $1.9 million at today’s price. The man then leaves on his journey, entrusting his property into the hands of his servants. Before we go any further, this is what Christ has done with us. He has given us gifts, talents, skills and abilities to use for His kingdom growth. He has gone on a long journey and entrusted His property, the earth, and all that is in it to us. The question is, what are we doing with all we have been given? For many we are serving God well, not sure we have it all together, or using all correctly but we are doing what we believe God has called us to. As we move through life, we do our best, never looking back, always moving forward taking each day one day at a time. The words written by the Apostle Paul echo in our ears as the Lord spoke to him, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness” (II Corinthians 12.9, ASV).[2] These servants went about their business and one day the master returned and inquired of the servants what they had done with the talents he had given them. The first had increased his by 100 precent, the second likewise increased his by 100 precent. Notice each one doubled what they had and they received the same reward the master said, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your master’s joy” (Matthew 25.21,23, CSB).[3] Now there is the last servant, he comes with the one talent, he is like many of us, thinking we do not have anything to offer, there is nothing we can do, we do not know anything. Yet the master had given him a talent and what did he do with it? Nothing! How disrespectful, how un-honoring, unworthy is he; he did not care for his master, nor for himself. He was more afraid of failure then trying something, then going out with the gift, skills, talents or abilities God had given him and using them for His glory. Know what God has given him will never come to failure, but will always work out for His glory (Philippians 1.6, 2.13; Colossians 4.12). As servants of God, we need to use all God has given to us for His glory, never worrying what others think about what we are doing or why we are doing it. As long as we are serving God according to His Word, and not violating His scriptures then continue on. But to sit on the sidelines because we are afraid of making a mistake, or what might happen, well then, we will be like the last servant when the Lord returns, “Thou wicked and slothful servant” (Matthew 25.26, KJV).[4] These are not the words we want to hear, nor should we. We must be busy serving our Lord, in whatever way we can, for He has given each of us something to do within His Kingdom, for His glory, to share His gospel, and to let the world know He is coming back. Maybe the reason we do not serve is because we do not believe He is coming back. Application
Prayer Lord, our Lord how magnificent is your name throughout the earth! I am amazed that You have taken the time to care about me, to look after me, to know me, and understand me. Lord help me to have a servant’s heart, to be someone who is looking out for the interest of others, and not just my own. Lord, give me wisdom to do for others, to have compassion on those who need Your help and allow me to show Your love and grace by my actions. As I serve You Lord, open the door to share Your gospel, begin to prepare the hearts of those I will come into contact with and provide me with the words to say. This I pray in Your Dear Son Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Mt 25:14–30). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] American Standard Version. (1995). (2 Co 12:9). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. [3] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Mt 25:23). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [4] The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Mt 25:26). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 19 - Matthew 25.14-30
12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them (John 13.12-17, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him – John 13.16 What does it mean to be a servant? How should one act as a servant? Should we even be servants? These are all good questions and over the next few days we are going to explore them, dive deeper into what it means to be a servant and the right kind of attitude a servant should have. There are many places within scripture we could go to draw examples from but we will start with our Lord and Savior in the book of John. The Passover is about to begin, Jesus knows His hour is at hand, and the disciples still have a lot to learn. Jesus has used every opportunity to teach them how to be servants through compassion, looking out for others needs, to understanding that the little ones are just as important as the adults. However, at almost every turn the disciples missed what Jesus was showing them, they failed to understand or comprehend His deeper meaning; and worst they had no idea how to apply what He was teaching them. Now, before we start casting stones at them, remember we have the entire Word of God, the Holy Spirit and 2000 years of spiritual history and yet we still act just like them. So, let us learn from their mistakes instead of casting the first stone. In John 13, Jesus and the disciples are having the Passover meal. At the conclusion of the meal Jesus gets up and removes His clothes putting on a towel and begins to wash the disciple’s feet. Now, let us put this into historical context, “footwashing was regarded as so lowly a task that it could not be required of a Hebrew slave.”[2] Footwashing was left for the lowest slaves to perform and was never done by the master or host of the house. Jesus’ act was both amazing and confusing to the disciples, yet He, as always, was teaching them how they needed to be when He was gone. He says to them, “You call me Teacher and Lord—and you are speaking rightly, since that is what I am. 14 So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet” (John 13.13-14, CSB).[3] Jesus was not saying to them to go out and wash people’s feet, but that they needed to remember who they are, where they come from and how they are to interact with others. If the Messiah, the Savior of the World, the Lamb of God could humble Himself and wash the disciple’s feet then they could humble themselves and serve others; but more importantly they could serve Christ with all they have. See, service is about denying ourselves and being fully committed to one person, one object, one thing or task. When our focus is divided among many things it is hard for us to give, nah impossible, for us to give our all. This is why Paul said, “I wish that all men (women) were even as I myself am” (I Corinthians 7.7, NASB95).[4] What is Paul talking about? In this case marriage, why is he making this type of statement? His reasoning for this question can be found in verses 32-35—But I would have you to be free from cares. He that is unmarried is careful for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord: but he that is married is careful for the things of the world, how he may please his wife, and is divided. So also the woman that is unmarried and the virgin is careful for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married is careful for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. And this I say for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is seemly, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction (I Corinthians 7.32-35, ASV).[5] Our interest in marriage is divided, and in life the more things we take on our interests get divided. We need to be reminded that our life as a believer is here to serve the Lord, seeking after Him. It does not mean we forget our responsibilities and obligations, but we must also not allow our position or success to go to our heads. Christ’s example is as He said, “no one is above their Master.’ Therefore, we must always be looking for ways to serve our fellowman; not for recognition or reward but because it is was Christ has exemplified for us, “it is our reasonable service” (Romans 12.2). So, when we are going into a new church, or ministry, or small group, or wherever Christ is leading us our first thoughts should not be, “what will I get out of this,” “what will they do for me,” “how will this group or church benefit me,” or “what services do they have to offer me or my family.” We should be asking this question instead, “Lord, how can I best be used by You here, for Your glory and honor?” We must remember when it comes to service the first part is to ‘serve’ and the second part is to ‘deny.’ Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16.24, ESV).[6] We are to come after Christ, then ‘deny; ourselves, putting all things Christ first and foremost in our life. It is only when we do this we can truly ‘take up our cross’ and ‘follow’ Him. Service is about ‘denial’ letting go of yourself and allowing God to reign supreme in your life. Application
Prayer Lord, our Lord how magnificent is your name throughout the earth! I am amazed that You have taken the time to care about me, to look after me, to know me, and understand me. Lord help me to have a servant’s heart, to be someone who is looking out for the interest of others, and not just my own. Lord, give me wisdom to do for others, to have compassion on those who need Your help and allow me to show Your love and grace by my actions. As I serve You Lord, open the door to share Your gospel, begin to prepare the hearts of those I will come into contact with and provide me with the words to say. This I pray in Your Dear Son Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Jn 13:12–17). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] Church, C. (2003). Footwashing. In C. Brand, C. Draper, A. England, S. Bond, E. R. Clendenen, & T. C. Butler (Eds.), Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary (p. 592). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [3] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Jn 13:13–14). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [4] New American Standard Bible, 1995 Edition: Paragraph Version. (1995). (1 Co 7:7). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation. [5] American Standard Version. (1995). (1 Co 7:32–35). Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc. [6] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Mt 16:24). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 18 - John 13.12-17
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4.11-16, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ – Ephesians 4.15 As we work together in community and small groups, we should find ourselves growing in the knowledge and understanding of who Jesus Christ is. At the same time we should be helping others come to a great understanding and deeper relationship with Christ. This is what small groups can help us do. Remember at the beginning of this discussion we said people who join a church and got involved in a small group of some kind were five times more likely to still be involved in their church five years later, compared to a person who only attended a worship service (see Pt.2, 3).[2] Small groups are vital to a church’s growth, and we should be part of a small group, such as Sunday School, Youth group, choir, AWANA, or any other small group that might be going on at church. If there are not any small groups then talk to the pastor about starting one, but this is important for our growth and the growth of the church. Paul says here in Ephesians as we grow, we will not be tossed about like children but we will become mature Christians, who should speak the truth in love, growing up in Christ who is the Head of the Church (v15). When we remember why we do what we do, then we can be successful. But when we start to think of ourselves as something we are not, then we are in a lot of trouble. Remembering that Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church, He is the One in Charge is very important. It frees us to just serve and be servants to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. See what Paul says here, “From him the whole body, fitted and knit together by every supporting ligament, promotes the growth of the body for building itself up in love by the proper working of each individual part” (Ephesians 4.16, CSB).[3] It is from Christ we are fitted together, placed in the right place for the right purpose; supported by each other; thereby, promoting the growth of the body. Yep, we all work together, growing together, building each other up. Yes, we can do this in the corporate worship setting, but how much more intimate and personal is the small group. Just think about how much more we get to know each other, understand each other and can really care for each other when we are in need. Sure, many times we can make it happen in the corporate worship setting, but it is much more difficult. Most of us are rushing in and out, there is not much time for relationship building. We do need to take time to know those who are not in a small group, to invite them to be part of a group, including ours. No small group should be exclusive unless it is dealing with gender issues or age-appropriate issues. For example, men’s and women’s Bible Studies and Children’s Sunday School Class or Youth Class, these would-be examples of exclusive groups but at times these rules might be bent, such as boys being allowed to come to the men’s Bible Study. The point here is not to only allow a select few in and then keep everyone else out. When we do this then we have created a click and not a healthy small group. Clicks will destroy the church and should not be formed. Again, understand clicks do happen because people with the same interests, likes, dislikes, and so on will seem to hang together. This is ok unless we are not allowing others to be part of the group. Small groups grow because they have a desire to understand the Word of God and they want to see others know God’s Word too. Therefore, they will learn, study, invite, encourage, live, and share the gospel message with their friends, family and circle of contacts. It is through this sharing the group grows and the Kingdom of God is increased, which is our ultimate goal. Application
Prayer Oh, Father in heaven, Master of all You see, thank You for Your love and compassion, and mercy and grace. I know there is no way I could ever understand why You loved me so, or sent Your Son to die in my place. But what I do know is You have called me to share You message with my friends and circle of contacts. You have also asked me to have a relationship with You, and I have not done a very good job at that. Lord I need to die to myself and live for You. Help me to spend more time in Your Word, in Prayer to You and find the time to share Your gospel with others. Lord, I need an opportunity to share Your gospel and to have confidence along with a fearless heart to be a leader so others will hear and know who You are, I cannot do this on my own please help me to be the Christian You have called me to be. This I pray in Your Dear Son Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 4:11–16). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] Rainer, Thom, S., (2015), I Will., (pp. 37), Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Company [3] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Eph 4:16). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 15 - Ephesians 4.11-16 Pt. 8
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4.11-16, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ – Ephesians 4.15 As we have been discussing, what we must have as we come together in smaller groups to study the Word of God. Knowing this will help us to equip one another and build up the body of Christ. Paul gives us five reasons why we must work together, study together, and serve together. We have looked at the first four, Unity in the Faith, Knowledge of the Son of God, Maturity as a Believer, and No Longer Children. Finally, Paul tells us we need to ‘Tell The Truth With Love’ (vs.15). So, what is ‘Truth’ and what is ‘Love?’ These are great questions and we will answer them in the next few paragraphs. We could simply say “God is Truth” (John 14.6), and God is Love (I John 4.8). However, there is so much more to it than this, to understand the truth and love of God we must know some things about God. We must have a relationship with Him, because to say God is truth and love is one thing but to know God is truth and love is quite another. Therefore, let us look deeper into the Truth of God and the Love of God, and how we might be able to understand why we should want to have a relationship with such a God. How, having such a relationship can help us in our life and help others as we work together in small groups. First, God is Truth—Jesus said in John 14.6, “I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, no man comes unto the Father, but by Me.” He was speaking to His disciples, and currently to us as well. But notice the four statements He makes in this verse. Three of them are part of His “I Am” statements; “I Am the Way,” “I Am the Truth,” I Am the Life,” and the other is an emphatic statement only He can complete, “…but by Me.” Jesus Christ the Son of God is Truth, and it is this truth that we need to have in our life. Not just because we have asked Jesus Christ to be our Lord and Savior, but because we are unafraid to speak the truth of Christ to others. The truth of Christ, His Word, cause us to speak with boldness always seeking to share who He is and His desires, but never forgetting to have compassion for those who do not know Him as their Savior. Paul reminded young Timothy to preach the Word, no matter what, no matter how favorable it would be, how much people would like what he had to say, or whether it hurt their feelings. The important thing was to preach what God had put on his heart for the people (II Timothy 4.1-5). This truth of Christ must be given with love, love not like what we might think of, but the Love of God. John writes, “God is Love” (I John 4.8). Our understanding of love comes from God, therefore, when we speak to people about God, the truth of God we must do it with Love. Understand this, we might think we already know what love is, but we do not. In our lives we have been taught love is a feeling or emotion; it is sometimes given to us, or it can even be taken. But we need to understand what we know about love is shallow and not at all what God intended for us. Yes, we love our parents, or spouse, girlfriend, boyfriend, brother(s), sister(s), family and so on. But what about football, baseball, pizza, hamburgers, fries, waterslides, airplanes, and so on. See there are many things we say we love, yet we really do not understand the word ‘love’. We have given it a variety of meanings yet, God has given it one meaning. Love is sacrifice, dedication, humility, unselfishness, putting others above yourself, having no thought for your safety but the safety of others. John in his excellent epistle exclaims, “God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (I John 4.9-10, NRSV).[2] Through Him we are made alive, what amazing love God showed to us. He should have passed judgment on us, we deserved death, “for the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6.23). Yet God saw our condition and knew there was no way we could ever make it, could ever reach Him without some help, “for all have fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3.23). So, God in His wonderful amazing love, sent His one and only Son to earth, while we were still without hope, lost in our sin, dying and going to hell, going to be separated from God forever, Christ came and died for us (Romans 5.8). This is the Love of God and it is the truth that we must share with others, we are called to share with others. Christ “bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness;” (I Peter 2.24, NIV).[3] as the prophet Isaiah said, “by his wounds you have been healed” (Isaiah 53.5, NIV).[4] Let us put this all together, Christ is the only Truth; Yes, there is other truth in the world, but when we are talking about spiritual truth, Christ is the only Truth. He is also the only Love, for Love comes from God (I John 4.8). By having this Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior we have both the Truth and Love of God within us, we just need to allow God to use them in our lives the way He intends for His glory. Application
Prayer Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the Truth of Your Son and Your Word. Thank You for Your Love and compassion. If it was not for Your mercy and grace I would be a lost sinner headed to the lake of fire without any hope. However, because of Your Son, His selfless act on the cross, and willingness to take my place I now have a chance to stand in Your presence, Thank You. Lord, give me an opportunity to share Your gospel and to have confidence along with a fearless heart to be a leader so others will hear and know who You are. This I pray in Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 4:11–16). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (1 Jn 4:9–10). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers. [3] The New International Version. (2011). (1 Pe 2:24). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. [4] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Is 53:5). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 13 - Ephesians 4.11-16 Pt. 7
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4.11-16, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ – Ephesians 4.15 As we grow into a mature believer, we can no longer be children in the Faith. This might seem like a given, but many times we still continue to act like and wander around in our faith as if we are children. The real problem with continuing to act like children, even though we are adults spiritually, is we are allowing ourselves to be influenced by anything and everything. In other words, we do not have any focus or our focus is not on the right things. In the movie Call of the Wild, (Spoiler Alert), a dog named Buck who thinks everything revolves around him, that he is the master of the house, finds himself unable to obey when he sees food, or even a rabbit. Because of this he is kidnapped and taken to Alaska where they are in need of sled dogs. Buck is a very large dog and the mail carrier buys Buck and places him at the back of the line, to learn how to be a sled dog. The only problem is even though Buck is big and looks mature on the outside he is not. On the inside he is still acting like a child, and as they begin to pull the sled, he sees a rabbit and runs off after it. Yep, pulling the entire sled and team with him. This is very similar to us, we can look mature on the outside, even talk like it, but in reality we are still very much like children. We do not know much of the Word of God, we cannot tell the difference between the truth and a lie, we do not know right doctrine from false doctrine and so on. Paul says, we cannot be children any more so we are not thrown around by the waves and carried by every wind of doctrine, by what people say, or how they scheme against us, with half-truths and falsehoods about Jesus Christ (vs.14). We must be on guard, always looking to our Savior for guidance and direction or we can drown in the sea of life. Our focus must be on the Lord Jesus if we are going to continue to grow and move forward for the cause of Christ. The best way to not be children and get caught up in all the things around us is to maintain this focus. It is understandable that from time to time we will lose focus, but what happens when we do? In Matthew the disciples were out and crossed over the sea of Galilee as Jesus had gone off to pray. A storm came up and they looked out into the sea and saw Him coming on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out in fear. “But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid” (Matthew 14.27, NRSV).[2] Of course, Peter the loud mouth says, “Lord if it is really You tell me to come and walk on the water” (vs.28). So Jesus, says, “Come” and Peter gets out of the boat and begins to walk on the water in the mist of this storm. Until he starts looking at the storm, “he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14.30-31, NRSV).[3] See Peter’s problem was not getting out of the boat, nor walking of water (ever tired it, it is hard), his problem was focus. He began to look at the problems, the situations around him and not on His Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, the One Who controlled all the elements. When we are not anchored in the correct truth, then we can be turned to just about anything that might come our way. Paul questioned the church at Galatia, “I am amazed that you are so quickly turning away from him who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another gospel, but there are some who are troubling you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, a curse be on him! As we have said before, I now say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, a curse be on him!” (Galatians 1.6-9, CSB).[4] When we do not remain focused on Jesus Christ we can be led astray. The Church of Galatia, allowed some to come into their midst and cause trouble, to teach incorrect things, pulling people away from the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. So, how do we make sure we do not become children who are tossed about, and lose focus like Peter and the church at Galatia? Simply put, stay in the Word of God and rely on Him for all our needs. As Solomon said to his son, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil” (Proverbs 3.5-7, NIV).[5] Our trust must be in the Lord and only Him, if we start to trust in other things, they will only let us down, disappoint us and cause us to lose faith and hope. Christ will never leave us, forsake us, nor fail us (Deuteronomy 31.6-8, Joshua 1.5-9, Hebrews 13.5). He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, we can and must trust Him with everything and anything we have (John 14.6). Application
Prayer God of Heaven and Earth, thank You for Your love and compassion. You never give up on me and may I never give up on You. Give me an opportunity to share Your gospel and to have confidence along with a fearless heart to be a leader so others will hear and know who You are. This I pray in Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 4:11–16). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Mt 14:27). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers. [3] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Mt 14:30–31). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers. [4] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Ga 1:6–9). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [5] The New International Version. (2011). (Pr 3:5–7). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 12 - Ephesians 4.11-16 Pt. 6
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4.11-16, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ – Ephesians 4.15 As we grow in Unity of Faith and our Knowledge of the Son of God, we will become more Mature Believers. But just like in our physical life, we still have set backs and do not always act as mature as we should. Today we are going to look at a few ways we can continue to grow in our spiritual maturity as a believer and watch out for the pit falls that might come. First, we must understand as a believer in Jesus Christ we all start at the beginning. Now what do we mean by this? We all start as new born babies, needing the milk of the Word, we need to begin with the small things and work our way up. And just like in our physical life, some will catch on faster, grow faster, and understand and develop skills faster than others. There is nothing wrong with this as we will all reach heaven because of the blood of Jesus Christ. Second, we can never be satisfied with one place. Peter tells us, “As newborn babies want milk, you should want the pure and simple teaching. By it you can mature in your salvation, because you have already examined and seen how good the Lord is” (I Peter 2.2-3, NCV).[2] But once we begin to grow from this milk we need to begin to dig deeper into the Word and look for the meat and potatoes, so we can put some muscle on our spiritual bodies. Paul, speaking to the church at Corinth said, “For my part, brothers and sisters, I was not able to speak to you as spiritual people but as people of the flesh, as babies in Christ. I gave you milk to drink, not solid food, since you were not yet ready for it. In fact, you are still not ready, because you are still worldly. For since there is envy and strife, among you, are you not worldly and behaving like mere humans?” (I Corinthians 3.1-3, CSB).[3] What was he talking about, “babies in Christ?” The church at Corinth, were still living in the flesh, they claimed to be followers of Christ, yet even with Paul’s teachings they had not grown any. If we had a new born, who we had given milk to every day yet it was not growing we would think something was wrong. We would take it to the doctor and try to figure out what and how to get it to grow. Paul says, I wanted to give you more, help you to grow, yet you were still on milk. Here is why, you are still immature, people of the flesh, living in your fleshly desires. The author of Hebrews writes, “Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil” Hebrews 5.13-14, NIV).[4] Third, we must have an appetite for the right things. In the world today there are all kinds of things we can eat to fill our spiritual bellies, from cults, to false religions, to antient meditations. While some of these things on the surface might seem good and harmless fun, something to try and quit when we want; we may never know when their poison has killed us. Therefore, we need to put the truth of the Word of God into our lives as this is the only thing, we know will not harm us, and is breathed out by God, profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (II Timothy 3.16-17, ESV).[5] There are probably more things we can do to grow and mature as a believer, but these three are a good start; realize we all start at the same place, do not get stuck in one place, and have an appetite for the right things. Now let us look at a couple of ways to maintain our maturity. It is one thing to be mature, and quite another to act mature. First, we must find ourselves time to spend in the Word of God. If we cannot make time and spend time in the Word of God then we can never expect to grow or mature in Christ. Also our relationship with Christ will be lacking, causing us to have difficulty knowing what God wants for us in our life. The Lord said to Isaiah, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55.8-9, NASB95).[6] This is true for us today; so how do we know the Lord’s thoughts, and know His ways? We get in His Word and search it out, study it, and seek to find what He has in store for us. Second, through prayer. When we spend time in prayer we are communicating with our Heavenly Father, asking Him for guidance, directions, sharing our thoughts, desires, helps, needs, concerns, supplications, and intercessions for others. It is with prayer we stay in touch with the will of the Father. Jesus said, “In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full” (John 16.23-24, ESV).[7] Did Jesus mean whatever we ask we would get? No, it might seem like it but let us look at two other scriptures: Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14.123, ESV).[8] And, “And this is the boldness we have in God’s presence: that if we ask God for anything that agrees with what he wants, he hears us. If we know he hears us every time we ask him, we know we have what we ask from him” (I John 5.14-15, NCV).[9] Let us look at these for just a moment together, Jesus said, ask it is yours the Father will give it to you. But then Jesus said, whatever you ask in My name I will do so the Father will be glorified. And finally, John writes, if it agrees with God, or is according to His will then He will give it. Are we starting to see a pattern, when we pray it is not about our wants and desires but how we line up with God. When we do, then we will start to see prayers answered which will cause us to pray more. Application
Prayer God of Heaven and Earth, thank You for Your love and compassion. You never give up on me and may I never give up on You. Give me an opportunity to share Your gospel and to have confidence along with a fearless heart to be a leader so others will hear and know who You are. This I pray in Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 4:11–16). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] The Everyday Bible: New Century Version. (2005). (1 Pe 2:2–3). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc. [3] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (1 Co 3:1–3). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [4] The New International Version. (2011). (Heb 5:13–14). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. [5] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (2 Ti 3:16–17). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [6] New American Standard Bible: 1995 update. (1995). (Is 55:8–9). La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation. [7] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Jn 16:23–24). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [8] Ibid., (Jn 14:13) [9] The Everyday Bible: New Century Version. (2005). (1 Jn 5:14–15). Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 11 - Ephesians 4.11-16 Pt. 5
11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love (Ephesians 4.11-16, ESV).[1] Memory Verse – Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ – Ephesians 4.15 Yesterday we discussed ‘Unity in the Faith,’ what it looks like and how we can be part to bring unity where we are through our small group and the church. Today we are going to look at the ‘Knowledge Of The Son Of God,’ and how obtaining this will help build up the body of Christ and equip the saints. First, let us define what we mean by ‘Knowledge Of The Son Of God.’ We do not mean a saving knowledge of our Lord and Savior, but a more intimate personal relationship which can only come from spending time with Him in prayer and study of His Holy Word. If we say we know Him, yet we never spend any personal time with Him, do we really know Him? John MacArthur stated: After many years of devoted apostleship Paul still could say, “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, … that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings.… Not that I have already obtained it, or have already become perfect, but I press on in order that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:8–10, 12). Paul prayed that the Ephesians would have that “knowledge of Him” (1:17; cf. Philippians 1:4; Colossians. 1:9–10; 2:2). Growing in the deeper knowledge of the Son of God is a life-long process that will not be complete until we see our Lord face-to-face.[2] Our goal in life should not be to see how much money we can a mass, or how many cars, homes, friends, or degrees we can get. It should not be about status in our job, or career. We should never try to get to the top on the backs of others just to be the best. This is not what our lives as Christians are supposed to be about. Look again at what Paul said in Philippians, “But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them as dung, so that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith” (Philippians 3.7-9, CSB).[3] Paul, a very righteous man by all human standards, looked at his life through the lens of Jesus Christ and found he was not as righteous as he thought. Therefore, he recognized he would only have true gain in Christ, by knowing Christ, that is ‘Knowledge of the Son of God.’ It is because of Christ we have suffered loss of everything we know and hold dear to us. This might seem like a terrible thing, but let us think on this for a moment, what have we lost that was of such great value which Christ did not replace if necessary? Our pride, envy, hatred, anger, status, position, fame, glory, or prestige. The list could go on but we get the picture, when it really comes down to it, there is nothing in our life we need other than Jesus Christ. This is why He said, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 16.24-25, NRSV).[4] Christ wants everyone to come to Him, but it is still our choice, and when we do we must first, deny ourselves. This is what Paul was talking about in Philippians when he said, “But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ” (Philippians 3-7, CSB).[5] We must give up everything for the sake of Christ; He must reign supreme in our lives. It can be difficult to let go of some things, and as John MacArthur said, “Growing in the deeper knowledge of the Son of God is a life-long process that will not be complete until we see our Lord face-to-face.” After denying one’s self, we are to take up our cross, and follow Him. This requires us to have daily interaction with our Savior. We cannot expect to deny ourselves and then never speak to our Heavenly Father or every get into His Word. If we do not then how will we be able to take up our cross, to daily serve Him and follow Him as He requires? When we have a deeper personal relationship with our Heavenly Father, it becomes easier to understand what He wants for us to do. We can see His will in our lives and the direction He wants us to go. When we spend time with Him, He will speak to us, guiding us along His path for His righteousness and His glory. We will find more joy and excitement in the things we do when we are serving Him in this manner. Growing in the Knowledge of the Son of God, is not an overnight process, nor should the time required keep us from trying to understand more of the Son of God, and be more like Him. It should be our number one goal in life to be like Christ as much as humanly possible, always striving forward never looking back. For the devil would have us stay in the past, in our problems and mistakes, but Christ has paid for those mistakes, and cleansed us from all unrighteousness. So, move forward for the cause of Christ, be more like Christ, and grow in the Knowledge of the Son of God (Philippians 3.12-17). Application
Prayer Dear Heavenly Father I thank You for such a wonderful day. You have created all things and even when things might seem out of control or chaotic, I can rely on the fact You are still very much in control. Lord help me to be an agent of Unity within my church and small group, help me to promote good understanding of who You are, and why it is important to know more about You. Lord help me to be bold, to always put You first in my life, and give me wisdom in the things I do that they will bring glory and honor to You. Give me an opportunity to share Your gospel and the confidence and fearless heart to be a leader so others will hear and know who You are. This I pray in Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen. [1] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2016). (Eph 4:11–16). Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles. [2] MacArthur, J. F., Jr. (1986). Ephesians (p. 157). Chicago: Moody Press. [3] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Php 3:7–11). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. [4] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Mt 16:24–25). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers. [5] Christian Standard Bible. (2020). (Php 3:7). Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers. You Can Download This Blog Here - January 8 - Ephesians 4.11-16 Pt. 4
|
Author
|